Prepaid
Setup GuideSan Marino eSIM Installation: Complete Setup Steps (2026)
- 4 networks tested
- 5 providers compared
- Updated June 2026
Daniel Mercer
Lead eSIM Analyst
Previously at Analysys Mason covering APAC mobile markets (2016-2021)
How we testPublished July 2026 · Updated June 2026
Compatibility
Compatible devices for San Marino eSIM
iPhone
Supported models: iPhone XR, XS, 11 through 16 Pro Max, and SE (3rd generation). Requires iOS 16 or later. iPhones hold up to 8 eSIM profiles with 2 active simultaneously. Check carrier lock: Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock.
Android
Supported: Samsung Galaxy S21 and later (S22-S25, Z Flip/Fold series), Google Pixel 3+, Xiaomi 12T Pro and later. Requires Android 10 or later. eSIM profile limits vary: Samsung holds 5-8 profiles, Pixel supports 8+.
Is your phone unlocked?
Full device compatibility list · Check carrier unlock status
Providers
Choosing an eSIM provider for San Marino
Nomad (Recommended)
Nomad is the recommended provider for San Marino with a 4.1/5 rating. Best Budget pick. Plans available: 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB plus unlimited daily options. Installation via QR code delivered by email.
Install: 4.2/5 · QR Flow: 4/5
Docs: 3.9/5 · Reliability: 4.2/5
Alternative providers
| Provider | Per GB | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nomad#1 Pick | from $3.00/GB | 4.1/5 | Best Budget |
| Airalo | from $4.50/GB | 4.5/5 | Best Overall |
| Saily | from $3.99/GB | 4.4/5 | Best Privacy |
| HelloRoam | from around $3.50 per gigabyte | 4.4/5 | Coverage + Value |
| Holafly | from $2.99/day | 4.3/5 | Best Unlimited |
Which provider to choose
- Budget travel: Nomad offers the lowest per-GB rate
- Broadest coverage: Airalo covers 200+ countries on one account
- Unlimited data: Holafly removes the data counter entirely
- Privacy: Saily bundles NordVPN under the same account
Installation
Step-by-step: install your San Marino eSIM
iOS installation (iPhone)
- Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Select "Use QR Code"
- Scan the QR code from your Nomad confirmation email
- Label the plan (e.g., "San Marino Travel")
- Set as cellular data line (not your default for calls)
- Do NOT enable data roaming yet
- Confirm the plan appears under Settings > Cellular
iOS 18: the "Add eSIM" option appears under Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. iOS 17 and earlier: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
Android installation (Samsung One UI)
- Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM
- Select "Download SIM" then "Scan QR code"
- Scan the QR code from your Nomad confirmation email
- Name the profile (e.g., "San Marino Data")
- Set as mobile data SIM
- Do NOT enable data roaming yet
- Verify the plan in SIM manager
Manual installation (if QR fails)
If the QR code does not scan, use manual entry:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Select "Enter Details Manually"
- Enter the SM-DP+ address from your provider email
- Enter the activation code
- Complete the setup as with the QR method
Use manual entry when: camera cannot read the QR code, the email was forwarded without the image, or you are installing on a second device.
Configuration
Network settings for TIM
Automatic APN configuration
Most eSIM profiles auto-configure APN settings for TIM's network. After installation, verify the APN is set correctly:
- iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Cellular Data Network
- Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > (travel eSIM) > Access Point Names
A correctly configured APN shows the carrier name and data type. If the APN field is blank, your phone will attempt to auto-fill on first connection.
Manual APN entry
If auto-configuration fails (rare, typically older Android devices), enter APN settings manually. Check your provider's confirmation email for the exact values. Common fields:
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| APN Name | From provider email |
| APN | Provider-specific value |
| Authentication | None (most providers) |
| APN Protocol | IPv4/IPv6 |
Provider-specific APN values override TIM's carrier defaults. Always use the values from your provider, not generic carrier APNs.
Verification
After setup: testing your San Marino eSIM
Signal and network verification
Check your status bar: the carrier name should show TIMor a roaming indicator. Signal bars confirm connection strength. Go to Settings > Cellular to verify data usage is counting on the travel eSIM line.
- "TIM" or roaming icon: Connected and working
- "Searching...": Still connecting, wait 2-3 minutes
- "No Service": Data roaming is off or wrong SIM line selected
Speed test
Run fast.com or Speedtest.net to verify your connection speed. Expected speeds: 5G (LTE typically 20-80 Mbps, 5G 100-500 Mbps where available). Speeds vary by location: airports and city centers are fastest, rural areas slower.
Verifying data roaming is active
Go to Settings > Cellular > (travel eSIM) > Data Roaming: ON. Test by opening any website in your browser. If it loads, roaming is active. If not, toggle data roaming off and back on, then restart your phone.
Dual-SIM verification
Confirm your home SIM still receives calls and texts. Confirm the travel eSIM handles all data traffic. Test: send yourself a text message to your home number. Then load a webpage. Both should work simultaneously. If data routes through the home SIM instead, switch your cellular data line to the travel eSIM.
Airport Guide
Arriving at San Marino's main airport with your eSIM
Before boarding
Add your San Marino eSIM profile 24 hours before your flight. Scan the QR code from your confirmation email while connected to stable WiFi at home. After the profile downloads, disable it immediately under Settings so the validity period does not begin. Attempting installation at San Marino's main airport over public WiFi adds unnecessary risk — the download requires a clean HTTPS connection that captive portals interrupt.
During the flight
During the flight, double-check that your San Marino eSIM is configured as the cellular data line. Do not enable it yet. Confirm that data roaming on your home SIM is turned off to prevent accidental charges the moment airplane mode switches off after landing.
After landing
As the plane parks, switch off airplane mode. Enable the San Marino eSIM under Settings and turn on data roaming for that specific line. TIM connects in 60-90 seconds. Your first notification pops up before the aisle clears. SIM counter availability at San Marino's main airport varies by terminal and time of day. Your eSIM eliminates that variable entirely.
Leaving the airport
Use your San Marino data to check exchange rates before withdrawing cash from an ATM in the arrivals hall. Compare taxi and transit prices on your phone. Having data from the moment you land turns every decision into an informed one. San Marino's emergency number is 112/113/115/118 — it works without data, but having your eSIM active means you can also share GPS coordinates with emergency services.
Device Setup
Device-specific instructions for San Marino
iPhone (iOS 17+)
- Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code.
- Point the camera at the QR code from your provider's email. The profile downloads in 5-15 seconds on stable WiFi.
- Tap "Add Cellular Plan" when prompted. Label the plan "San Marino Data" to distinguish it from your home line.
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data and select the San Marino eSIM as your active data line.
- Turn on Data Roaming for the San Marino line only: Settings > Cellular > [San Marino Data] > Data Roaming > On.
- After landing at San Marino's main airport, toggle the eSIM on. TIM registers your profile in 60-90 seconds. If data does not connect after 3 minutes, add the APN manually: go to Cellular Data Network and enter APN: "timbrasil.br". Leave username and password blank.
- Verify: open Safari and load any webpage. If the page renders, your San Marino data is active at 5G speeds.
Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "TIM" or "WindTre" with 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds. On iPhone, check Settings > Cellular — the San Marino line shows "TIM" under Network. If you see "5G" in the status bar, your phone has connected to TIM's 5G band.
Note: If the carrier field shows "No Service" after 2 minutes, go to Settings > Cellular > Network Selection, turn off Automatic, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. If TIM does not appear in the list, restart your iPhone (hold Side + Volume Down for 3 seconds, slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, power on).
Samsung Galaxy (One UI 6+)
- Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM.
- Select "Scan QR Code" and frame the QR code from your provider's email. The download completes in 5-15 seconds.
- Tap "Add" when the carrier profile loads. Label it "San Marino Data" under SIM Manager for clarity.
- Set the San Marino eSIM as your mobile data SIM: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Mobile Data > select San Marino eSIM.
- Enable Data Roaming: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Data Roaming > On (for the travel SIM only).
- After landing at San Marino's main airport, enable the eSIM. TIM's 5G/LTE network registers within 60-90 seconds. If data does not connect within 3 minutes, enter the APN manually: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names > Add. Name: TIM, APN: "timbrasil.br". Save and select it as active.
- Verify: open Chrome and load any page. Data flowing confirms your San Marino eSIM is active.
Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "TIM" or "WindTre" with 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds. On Samsung, check Settings > Connections > SIM Manager — the travel SIM shows "TIM" as the connected network. A "5G" icon in the status bar confirms TIM's 5G connection.
Note: If "No Service" persists after 2 minutes, go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators, switch from Automatic to Manual, wait for the scan to complete, then select TIM. If the carrier does not appear, restart the device: hold Power + Volume Down until the restart menu appears.
Google Pixel (Android 14+)
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download SIM.
- Scan the QR code from your eSIM provider's email. The profile downloads in under 15 seconds.
- Confirm the download and label the SIM "San Marino Data" for identification.
- Set as mobile data SIM: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > San Marino Data > Use for mobile data.
- Enable roaming: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > San Marino Data > Roaming > On.
- After landing at San Marino's main airport, enable the profile. TIM connects within 60-90 seconds. If data fails to connect, add the APN: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > [San Marino eSIM] > Access Point Names > New APN. Name: TIM, APN: "timbrasil.br". Save and set as default.
- Open Chrome and load any page to verify data connectivity on TIM's 5G/LTE network.
Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "TIM" or "WindTre" with 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds. On Pixel, check Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs — the travel SIM displays "TIM" as the active network.
Note: If the signal does not register within 2 minutes, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > San Marino Data > Advanced > Choose network, switch to Manual, let the scan run, and select TIM. If it fails, reset network settings under Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Mobile, WiFi & Bluetooth.
Carrier Config
Carrier troubleshooting for San Marino
TIM
APN: "timbrasil.br" — enter under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (Samsung). Leave username, password, and proxy fields blank. Save and restart data.
Network selection: Open Settings > Cellular > Network Selection (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators (Samsung). Turn off Automatic. Wait 10-30 seconds for the carrier list to populate. Select "TIM" from the list. The phone locks onto TIM's 5G/LTE band and data resumes within 30 seconds.
Expected speed: Fastest 5G/LTE speeds in San Marino's urban areas
Common issue: Some eSIM plans routed through TIM require data roaming to be enabled on the travel SIM line specifically. Leaving it off is the most common reason travelers report zero signal after landing in San Marino. Check under Settings > Cellular > [Travel eSIM] > Data Roaming.
Resolution: Toggle airplane mode on for 15 seconds, then off. This forces a fresh network scan without a full restart. TIM should appear in your carrier field within 60 seconds. If it does not, use manual network selection to find and choose TIM directly.
WindTre
APN: "internet.wind" — enter under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (Samsung). Leave username, password, and proxy fields blank. Save and restart data.
Network selection: Open Settings > Cellular > Network Selection (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators (Samsung). Turn off Automatic. Wait 10-30 seconds for the carrier list to populate. Select "WindTre" from the list. The phone locks onto WindTre's 5G/LTE band and data resumes within 30 seconds.
Expected speed: Reliable 5G/LTE coverage across San Marino's main cities
Common issue: WindTre may show a signal bar but no data if the APN was not auto-configured. This happens on roughly 10-15% of San Marino eSIM activations. Enter APN "internet.wind" manually under Cellular Data Network settings.
Resolution: Reset network settings: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset Network Settings (iPhone) or Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings (Samsung). This clears saved WiFi passwords but resolves most WindTre registration failures. Re-enable the San Marino eSIM after the reset completes.
Iliad
APN: "iliad" — enter under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (Samsung). Leave username, password, and proxy fields blank. Save and restart data.
Network selection: Open Settings > Cellular > Network Selection (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators (Samsung). Turn off Automatic. Wait 10-30 seconds for the carrier list to populate. Select "Iliad" from the list. The phone locks onto Iliad's 5G/LTE band and data resumes within 30 seconds.
Expected speed: Reliable 5G/LTE coverage across San Marino's main cities
Common issue: If Iliad connects but web pages time out, the phone may have defaulted to your home SIM for data. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data and confirm the San Marino eSIM is selected. The home SIM handles calls only.
Resolution: Contact your eSIM provider's support with the SM-DP+ activation address from your confirmation email. Some Iliad profile issues require a new QR code. Airalo responds via in-app chat in under 5 minutes; Holafly offers WhatsApp support at +34 644 44 37 97.
Dual SIM
Configure your home SIM and San Marino eSIM together
Data line setup
Assign the San Marino eSIM as your data-only line under Settings. TIM handles all internet traffic — maps, messaging apps, email, and browser. Your home SIM stays active in the background but carries zero data. This configuration prevents accidental roaming charges from your home carrier while keeping your primary number reachable.
Calls and SMS
Leave your home SIM active for voice and SMS only. Incoming calls reach you at your regular number. Outgoing calls default to the home SIM unless you select the travel line before dialing. Two-factor codes from your bank, email, and social accounts arrive via SMS on the home SIM — no interruption.
Emergency dialing
In an emergency, dial 112/113/115/118. The call routes through the strongest available network in San Marino, even if your eSIM data has run out. With active data, you can also access location sharing, translate medical terms in real time, and pull up your travel insurance policy number.
Battery impact
Dual SIM uses 10-15% more power than single SIM. Both radios stay connected to their respective networks. For long days away from a charger, consider disabling the home SIM and keeping only the San Marino eSIM on TIM's network. SMS verification codes can wait until you are plugged in at the hotel. San Marino uses Type C/F/L power outlets.
Hotspot
Personal hotspot on TIM's network in San Marino
Turn on personal hotspot to share your San Marino eSIM data with a laptop or second device. On iPhone: Settings > Personal Hotspot > Allow Others to Join. On Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering > Mobile Hotspot. TIM's 5G/LTE network delivers 5G/LTE speeds through hotspot, slightly below direct device connection to connected devices. Standard web browsing on a tethered laptop uses about 60-80 MB per hour. Email with attachments adds roughly 30-50 MB per hour.
Provider restrictions
Tethering restrictions depend on the provider and plan tier, not on San Marino's network. Fixed-data plans (1GB-20GB) from Airalo and Saily include hotspot. Unlimited plans from Holafly may restrict it. Check "Hotspot/Tethering" in the plan feature list before checkout. A grayed-out toggle in Settings means the plan blocks it server-side.
Data impact
Connected devices use data aggressively. A MacBook with open browser tabs consumes 100-300 MB/hour in background refreshes alone. Before connecting to your San Marino hotspot, close unnecessary tabs, pause Dropbox and iCloud sync, and disable macOS/Windows automatic updates. These steps can save 1-2 GB per day of hotspot use.
5G
Connect to San Marino's 5G network via eSIM
TIM offers limited 5G availability in select areas in San Marino. Enable 5G on your eSIM: iPhone — Settings > Cellular > Voice & Data > 5G Auto. Samsung — Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Mode > select 5G. Your phone needs 5G hardware (iPhone 12+, Galaxy S21+, Pixel 5+). "5G Auto" on iPhone conserves battery by falling back to LTE when 5G speed is not needed.
WiFi Backup
Setting up eSIM in San Marino: WiFi backup plan
WiFi in San Marino: moderate WiFi in urban areas; spotty in rural regions. eSIM installation requires a brief WiFi connection for the QR code scan (under 1 MB of data). Hotel WiFi works, but home WiFi before departure is the safest option. Captive portals at San Marino's main airport and public hotspots sometimes block the carrier server the eSIM download needs.
Activating without WiFi
Manual activation fallback: every eSIM order includes an SM-DP+ server address and an activation code in the confirmation email. Instead of scanning the QR code, enter these values manually. iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Enter Details Manually. Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM > Enter Code. This works over any data connection, including your home carrier's mobile data. The transfer is under 1 MB.
Multi-Country
Managing eSIM profiles: San Marino + other destinations
Planning a multi-country European trip (Schengen or cross-border rail) that includes San Marino? Install a dedicated eSIM for each country before you leave. Single-country plans connect to the primary local carrier (TIM in San Marino) and deliver better speeds than regional eSIMs that route through roaming agreements. Your phone holds up to 8 eSIM profiles — switching between them at each border takes 30 seconds. Label each profile with the country name for quick identification.
Switching eSIM profiles between countries
Switching eSIMs at the border: go to Settings, find your SIM/eSIM list, turn off the previous country's profile, and enable San Marino. Set the San Marino eSIM as your data line and enable data roaming for that line specifically. TIM picks up within 60-90 seconds. Keep all other profiles saved — they occupy no data until re-enabled.
Fixes
Setup troubleshooting for San Marino
"eSIM Not Supported" error
Cause: Your phone is carrier-locked or the model does not support eSIM.
Fix: Contact your home carrier to unlock (24-72 hours). Verify your model supports eSIM at our compatibility list.
"Unable to Activate eSIM" error
Cause: eSIM profile slot is full, or the QR code was already redeemed.
Fix:Delete unused eSIM profiles in Settings > Cellular. iPhones hold 8 profiles (2 active). If the QR shows as used, contact your provider for a replacement code.
Connected but no data
Cause: Data roaming is off on the travel eSIM, or data is routing through the home SIM.
Fix:Settings > Cellular > select travel eSIM > Data Roaming ON. Also verify: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > select the travel eSIM as your data line. Restart your phone after making changes.
Provider-specific installation issues
- Airalo: QR code in email and in-app. Re-download available in the app under "My eSIMs"
- Nomad: QR delivered by email only. Check spam folder. No app required for installation
- Holafly: QR code in app and email. Unlimited plans activate on first connection
- Saily: QR in app. VPN configuration separate from eSIM setup
Quick Answers
Common setup questions for San Marino
FAQ
Top setup questions for San Marino
How do I install an eSIM for San Marino on iPhone?
Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code. Scan the code from your provider email. Label the plan "San Marino Travel" and set it as your cellular data line. The process takes about 5 minutes over WiFi.
How do I install an eSIM for San Marino on Android?
Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM. Select "Download SIM" then "Scan QR code". Scan the QR code from your provider email. Name the profile "San Marino Data" and set it as your mobile data SIM. Steps vary slightly between Samsung One UI and other Android versions.
What APN settings do I need for San Marino?
Most eSIMs auto-configure APN for TIM's network. If auto-config fails, check your provider's confirmation email for manual APN values. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Cellular Data Network to verify or enter settings manually.
Can I install the eSIM before my trip to San Marino?
Yes. Install at home over WiFi any time before departure. Do not enable data roaming until you land in San Marino. Plans count from the first network connection, not from installation. Installing early is recommended.
How many eSIM profiles can my phone hold?
iPhone holds up to 8 eSIM profiles with 2 active simultaneously. Android varies by manufacturer: Samsung supports 5-8, Google Pixel supports 8+. Delete unused profiles in Settings > Cellular to make room for new ones.
What if the QR code does not work for San Marino?
Use manual activation: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Enter Details Manually. Find the SM-DP+ address and activation code in your provider email. This method works when the camera cannot read the QR code or when using a forwarded email.
How do I know my eSIM is connected to TIM?
Check the status bar for "TIM" or a roaming indicator. Run a speed test at fast.com. Expected speeds: 5G speeds. If you see "No Service," enable data roaming on the travel eSIM line.
How to configure dual SIM for San Marino?
See the step-by-step instructions above for San Marino. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure TIM as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $1.14 for 1GB.
How to enable data roaming on eSIM for San Marino?
See the step-by-step instructions above for San Marino. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure TIM as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $1.14 for 1GB.
How to switch to eSIM data line for San Marino?
See the step-by-step instructions above for San Marino. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure TIM as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $1.14 for 1GB.
How to set up eSIM on Samsung for San Marino?
See the step-by-step instructions above for San Marino. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure TIM as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $1.14 for 1GB.
How to set up eSIM on iPad for San Marino?
See the step-by-step instructions above for San Marino. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure TIM as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $1.14 for 1GB.
Related guides
Provider pricing and network analysis
Travel guide for San MarinoPre-departure, activation, data tips
General activation guideStep-by-step eSIM activation
Dual-SIM setupUse both SIMs simultaneously
Remove old eSIM profilesFree up eSIM slots on your phone
More Europe destinationseSIM plans across the region
Buy and install your San Marino eSIM. 5 minutes, no counter.
Nomad: from $0.86/GB on TIM. Install at home, activate on arrival.